A new spinning disk microscope at the University of Bristol will let researchers watch living cells in real time without damaging them. The system solves a critical bottleneck: existing microscopes in the region cannot capture fast, three-dimensional cellular processes—such as cargo moving inside a cell or a developing nerve—without bleaching or killing the sample. The new machine adds three capabilities: laser pulses to poke or destroy single cells and watch how neighbours respond; automated imaging of hundreds of samples at once, analysed by artificial intelligence; and extra laser colours to track multiple molecules simultaneously. Because this is fundamental bioscience, the impact will not be immediate or tangible. The 24 research groups already lined up will use the microscope to study intracellular transport, cell signalling, organ development, tissue repair, tumour formation, and new antimicrobials. Deeper understanding of these basic rules of life has historically led to unexpected applications—for example, live-cell imaging techniques developed for curiosity-driven research later became essential for drug screening and cancer diagnostics. The facility’s affordable pricing model also widens access to researchers across the South-West who otherwise lack such equipment.
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The aim of this application is to equip the University of Bristol’s light microscopy facility (Wolfson Bioimaging Facility, WBF) with a multipurpose spinning disk imaging system to meet the needs of a broad range of innovative, discovery research projects. The WBF provides an extensive userbase (currently >350 researchers from >120 groups) in the University of Bristol, and the South-West via the GW4 alliance (Universities of Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter), with affordable access to state-of-the-art light microscopes and support from RTP experts in image acquisition and analysis. The proposed system will expand the functionality and capacity of the facility to provide cutting-edge techniques to this diverse userbase. Spinning disk microscopy offers advantages for live imaging since, in addition to its optical sectioning capabilities, it is an inherently fast and minimally damaging technique. The inclusion of three additional features greatly enhances the toolbox our users will have at their disposal to study biological processes at high speed and in great detail: Photomanipulation to probe the dynamics of intracellular components and individual cells, and photodamage to study the responses to localised cell destruction. High-content screening (HCS) enabled by multi-well imaging and AI analysis tools to increase the throughput and efficiency of data acquisition and analysis. Extending the range of available lasers to expand the number of targets that can simultaneously be observed during imaging — increasing efficiency and expanding labelling options for researchers. We anticipate heavy use of this system immediately following acquisition and for many years to come. An initial user base of 24 research groups that fit squarely within BBSRC priority research areas (especially fundamental biosciences and engineering biology), of which 16 have been selected as co-leads, have projects which would immediately benefit from access to this technology. The projects will advance our understanding of the dynamic processes which are fundamental to the rules of life. These include study of intracellular transport, cell signalling, organelle plasticity, neurological development, tissue engineering, development and repair, tumorigenesis and the development of novel antimicrobials. Beyond these immediate users, the WBF provides expertise and assistance to researchers within the university and South-West at affordable prices in a sustainable costing model — widening access to users with any level of experience. In summary, the proposed multi-purpose spinning disk system would address critical shortages of key imaging capabilities in advanced live imaging, high-content screening and multiplexing required by diverse groups of researchers across the University of Bristol and beyond. These cutting-edge tools will be supported by a well-established facility with a high level of technical expertise and a proven track record of supporting pioneering research.
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